Cover Art Coverage: 15 New Titles!

Bare chests, optical illusions, and gritty, grimy sex appeal, this week’s cover reveals have it all. And between Abigail, Chris, and our guest commentator Kat from the Cuddlebuggery Book Blog, we pretty much covered all the bases as well. Kat’s a hard sell on covers, but that makes for some hilarious comments in the meantime. And I have a few follow up questions regarding Chris’s “adult beverages”, not the least of which being if we should include pairing recommendations with our cover reviews? E. L. Tettensor’s DARKWALKER just begs for a gin and tonic salute to the foggy streets of London, and Rebeca Zanetti’s FORGOTTEN SINS needs a cold beer like you wouldn’t believe. What’s your favorite compliment to this week’s covers?

Covers in Series

Rory Miller thought her life was over when a serial killer set his sights on her and forced her into witness protection. But a fresh start on Juniper Landing Island was exactly what she and her family needed. For the first time in years she and her sister hang out at the beach, gossip about boys, and party together. She’s also made friends with a local clique–including a magnetic and mysterious boy named Tristan.

But Rory’s world is about to change again. Picturesque Juniper Landing isn’t what it seems. The truth about the swirling fog that rolls in each morning, the bridge that leads to nowhere, and those beautiful locals who seem to watch Rory’s every move is more terrifying than being hunted by Steven Nell. And all Rory ever wanted was the truth. Even if it means learning that she can never go home again. From the best-selling author of the Private and Privilege series comes the second novel in a heart-stopping trilogy about a girl who must pick up the pieces after the only life she’s ever known ends.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

I really love the mourful colors that this series uses and how wistful the girls look.

Chris Says

Why is the letter ‘A’ in the bottom corner smaller than the others? That is driving me crazy. Otherwise I like it!

Kat Says

I look at this cover and all I see is the hair. Who has time to do their hair like that when dealing with a serial killer? It’s a pretty but a bit generic for my tastes

Sunroper (Goddesses Rising #3) by Natalie J. Damschroder

Expected publication: December 31st 2013 by Entangled: Select

Source: Goodreads

Covers in Series

Marley Canton is done being a victim. A year and a half has passed since she discovered her ability to nullify power in those who aren’t supposed to have it. She’s now on a quest not only to stop the brats who’ve become addicted to goddess power, but also to find the source of their addiction.

Like Marley, Gage Samargo is tracking down the goddess who went rogue decades ago. Insane with too much power from the sun, she’s selling that energy to Gage’s younger brother and his friends, who are no longer content to come into power naturally. While they work to find a way to neutralize the goddess, Marley discovers that every time she nullifies someone, she takes on some of the goddess’s insanity.

Gage falls for Marley’s sharp wit and intense desire to right wrongs. But once he discovers she’s turning into her enemy, is it too late to back away?

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

The covers for this series make no sense to me. The first looked YA, the second looked steamy PNR, and this one is UF…I actually love this cover on just about every level, but the continuity issues are worrisome. I hope this actually is UF.

Chris Says

Ok, I’ve had a few glasses of adult beverages this evening so this may be coloring every critique tonight, but this cover is boring. She’s just … kneeling there. I also hate photographs of people on urban fantasy covers. They always rub me the wrong way.

Kat Says

I’m never entirely enthusiastic about covers where girls are caressing strangely visible gusts of wind-like objects. But that’s just me. Is this the sun she’s supposedly roping? If so, I have bad news for her about what does and doesn’t classify as a sun.

The 100 (The Hundred #1) by Kass Morgan

Expected publication: September 3rd 2013 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Source: Goodreads

Covers in Series

N/A

In the future, humans live in city-like spaceships orbiting far above Earth’s toxic atmosphere. No one knows when, or even if, the long-abandoned planet will be habitable again. But faced with dwindling resources and a growing populace, government leaders know they must reclaim their homeland… before it’s too late.

Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents are being sent on a high-stakes mission to recolonize Earth. After a brutal crash landing, the teens arrive on a savagely beautiful planet they’ve only seen from space. Confronting the dangers of this rugged new world, they struggle to form a tentative community. But they’re haunted by their past and uncertain about the future. To survive, they must learn to trust – and even love – again.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

I’m so psyched to read this one and thrilled that the TV pilot got picked up by THE CW. The cover itself has those teasing glimpses of romance and grit. Highly anticipated!

Chris Says

This book sounds like a weird, sci-fi version of Lord of the Flies. Count me in! This is also an excellent example of how to do a busy cover well. I’m intrigued by the hints of everything I see.

Kat Says

Yeah! I can’t wait to read Wall-Eeeee… wait, what? That’s not Wall-E. Oh well. The covers interesting at least. I feel weird complaining about this, but who knew there were so many blonde-haired, well-groomed thieves? Is this set in CW world?

Night Pilgrims (Saint-Germain #26) by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro

Expected publication: July 30th 2013 by Tor Books

Source: Goodreads

Covers in Series

Chelsea Quinn Yarbro’s first Saint-Germain novel, Hotel Transylvania,was recently nominated as Vampire Novel of the Century. Her Saint-Germain cycle, now comprised of more than twenty-five books, is a masterwork of historical horror fiction. The vampire Count Saint-Germain has crisscrossed the world many times, seeking love and the blood of life and seeing humanity at its best and worst.

In Night Pilgrims, Saint-Germain is living in a monastery in Egypt when he is hired to guide a group of pilgrims to underground churches in southern Egypt. The vampire finds a companion in a lovely widow who later fears that her dalliance with the Count will prevent her from reaching Heaven.

The pilgrims begin to fall prey to the trials of travel in the Holy Lands; some see visions and hear the word of God; others are seduced by desires for riches and power. A visit to the Chapel of the Holy Grail brings many quarrels to a head; Saint-Germain must use all his diplomacy and a good deal of his strength to keep the pilgrims from slaughtering one another.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

I was going to go middle until I saw the pyramid and camels in the background. Plus I like the aged wash in this case.

Chris Says

First glance of this cover had me all happy thinking it was a new Kushiel book from Jaqueline Carey. Then I saw it wasn’t. This made me sad enough that I had to go refill my drink. Also – how cool would it be to make the cover art coverage a drinking game? Anyone? Bueller, Bueller?

Kat Says

I don’t feel anything but utter boredom when I look at this cover. Just… so… bored.

Hell Bent (Broken Magic #1) by Devon Monk

Covers in Series

N/A

Instead of the deadly force it once was, magic is now a useless novelty. But not for Shame Flynn and Terric Conley, “breakers” who have the gift for reverting magic back to its full-throttle power. In the magic-dense city of Portland, Oregon, keeping a low profile means keeping their gifts quiet. After three years of dealing with disgruntled magic users, Shame and Terric have had enough of politics, petty magic, and, frankly, each other. It’s time to call it quits.

When the government discovers the breakers’ secret—and its potential as a weapon—Shame and Terric suddenly become wanted men, the only ones who can stop the deadly gift from landing in the wrong hands. If only a pair of those wrong hands didn’t belong to a drop-dead-gorgeous assassin Shame is falling for as if it were the end of the world. And if he gets too close to her, it very well could be…

“The artist is Michael Heath. I think he did a great job! I love the action of the scene, and love that our hero is front and center with trouble coming his way. And is that the St. Johns bridge off in the distance? I do think this version of Shame is looking pretty clean-cut and on top of his game, which might not always be the case in the story itself. Still, it shows a strength and toughness that I like, and Shame is certainly both tough and strong, especially when all hell is breaking loose.” – Devon Monk

Abigail Says

The first book in the Allie Beckstrom spinoff series has a cool distinct look from its predecessor. I like staging here quite a lot.

Chris Says

I guess they had to put the ‘Broken Magic’ bit on the bottom so people would know this wasn’t a cheesy action/adventure novel. Though if this was an action/adventure novel it would so get a thumbs up instead.

Kat Says

Covers in Series

Lauren Dane’s “fresh, fun, fast-paced”* series comes to a thrilling conclusion as the heat of all out war fans the fires of an otherworldly romance…

The bombing that almost killed Owen witch Molly Ryan has worsened the tensions between the humans and the Others. While the Others desperately campaign to prevent the passage of a law that would strip their people of all rights, the human separatists develop an agenda far worse than anyone imagined. With her position more precarious than ever, security head Helena Jaansen finds herself relying more and more heavily on
her personal guard, Faine Leviathan, and, despite her better instincts, falling more deeply into the intimate connection that they share.

As Helena and Faine’s explosive passion grows, a deadly separatist plot is discovered, one which could bring ultimate destruction for the Others, and war breaks out between the two opposing factions. With the Others forced into hiding, Helena must overcome her fear of repeating past failures to save her people—and her heart—before it’s too late…

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Hard to go wrong with red and black, plus the tattos are really well done (you can even see his veins through them).

Chris Says

I wonder if this guy got his tribal tattoos at the same place he buys his Nickelback albums.

Kat Says

Cover designer: “How can we make this look like almost ever PNR cover ever made?” Cover designer answering their own question: “Manchest and tribal tattoos! Yeah, baby!”

Daysider by Susan Krinard

Covers in Series

N/A

Human/vampire relations are in turmoil in a stunning new series by New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Krinard Tensions between human and vampire factions are escalating. Peace hangs in the balance. And like two ill-fated stars, Alexia Fox and Damon are destined to collide. She’s a seductive human operative on a mission to infiltrate an illegal vampire colony. He’s a vampire and represents everything she loathes-and all that she desires. Their attraction is scorching, immediate…and could explode like the fragile truce they’ve both been fighting independently to preserve. Now the world’s last hope hinges on their ability to work together. As enemies they are doomed, but as allies they just might save the world.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

I don’t usually expect much from Nocturne covers, but this one is impressive. The distance works to give him a forlorn appearence and the way the light is hitting him…very nice.

Chris Says

If this was a drinking game it would so be shot time every time there’s a cover with a guy with his shirt off. Plus (assuming this guy on the cover is a vampire) why is he not burning if he’s sticking his hand in sunlight??? Oh well. I suppose I should be thankful he’s not sparkling.

Kat Says

You know what, this is another manchest cover, but I’m going to give this one a break. It’s manchest, but like, not trying to be manchest, amirite? There’s actual dynamic to the cover. A story to tell, that can be infered, etc. Okay FINE! I just really happened to like that particular manchest.

Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Covers in Series

N/A

He’s arrogant, domineering, and… To. Die. For.

Hunter is a ruthless killer. And the Department of Defense has him firmly in their grasp, which usually doesn’t chafe too badly because he gets to kill bad guys. Most of the time he enjoys his job. That is, until he’s saddled with something he’s never had to do before: protect a human from his mortal enemy.

Serena Cross didn’t believe her best friend when she claimed to have seen the son of a powerful senator turn into something… unnatural. Who would? But then she witnesses her friend’s murder at the hands of what can only be an alien, thrusting her into a world that will kill to protect their secret.

Hunter stirs Serena’s temper and her lust despite their differences. Soon he’s doing the unthinkable—breaking the rules he’s lived by, going against the government to keep Serena safe. But are the aliens and the government the biggest threats to Serena’s life…or is it Hunter?

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Yowza! I expected this to be steamier than the YA Lux covers since this is an Adult novel set in the same world, but this is pretty hot. Looks good though, except for the weird (fern?) branches at the bottom.

Chris Says

Don’t look so shocked by my thumbs up for this cover. I love it. It’s honest about the type of book it is and for that I give it major kudos.

Kat Says

NOOOOooooo. Has the world gone mad? Whoever photoshopped those eyes needed to stop, slap themselves and shut down their computer. I don’t like the title font either. I just feel like this mess had so much potential. And I actually reasonably like this series!

Covers in Series

Once a heart is lost in shadow…

Life has been anything but kind to Mary Chase. But the Society for the Suppression of Supernaturals has given her purpose. Now she’s been tasked with catching a vicious murderer dubbed the Bishop of Charing Cross. But someone is already on the case—and the last thing he relishes is a partner.

Only someone who lives in darkness can find it.

Jack Talent has been alone with his demons for many years. He never expected to have the willful Mary Chase assist him on the Bishop case. Their age-old rivalry reaches new heights—even as their desire for one another reaches a fever pitch. Though he aches to bring her close, Jack’s dark secrets are a chasm between them. With dangerous enemies closing in, Jack must find the strength to face the past…or risk losing Mary forever.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Great colors and the giant clock is giving me a Cinderella vibe, but they look totally disinterested in each other.

Chris Says

I really wanted to give this my usual thumbs down because of the guy’s unbuttoned shirt, but I really like everything else about this cover. Maybe I just like clocks? Or Victorian style dresses? I’d ponder this more but I have more covers left and a bachelor party to get to.

Kat Says

To be honest, I would love this cover if that dude’s shirt wasn’t just ripped open like that. Why is his shirt open? Was he attacked by a lavicious ghost? I don’t see and shredding. Does he have an illness that requires him to flash his pectorals for no apparent reason? I don’t know. Nice background but the font is straight up old school romance and it really clashes with the rest of the rather flashy cover.

Covers in Series

One choice will define you.

What if your whole world was a lie?
What if a single revelation—like a single choice—changed everything?
What if love and loyalty made you do things you never expected?

The explosive conclusion to Veronica Roth’s #1 New York Times bestselling Divergent trilogy reveals the secrets of the dystopian world that has captivated millions of readers in Divergent and Insurgent.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

You know, as soon as I saw this I felt like I’d already seen it. I mean, this series has a very predictable look that makes the actual reveal a little less thrilling. That in no way diminishes my excitement to read it though.

Chris Says

I like this series quite a bit, but just swapping colors every cover isn’t really doing it for me.

Kat Says

I’m so bored of this cover. Can I make a Detergent joke still or has that gotten old alread? Old? Okay, fine.

Covers in Series

After Xandra’s nasty run in with the Arcadian Council of Witches—where she was almost killed and her boyfriend, Declan, was almost framed for it—her plan is to lay low and figure out why its members would torment the people they are supposed to protect. Declan, temperamental and protective warlock that he is, doesn’t feel so reticent. And when violence erupts again, there’s no stopping him from pursuing revenge…

When a council member is murdered in a fashion that screams dark magic, Declan claims someone else beat him to it. Xandra doesn’t want to believe he could commit such a brutal act, but she knows he has a dark side—one that his former love interest Tsura understands better than she ever will. With Tsura back in town, Xandra doesn’t know whom to trust. And a killer targeting witches and wizards is still at large…

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Hmm. The debut was so good with a retrained sexuality. This looks like a girl in a cheap bridesmaid dress running in the desert. If her clothes were different, this would be an up since her expression is intriguing.

Chris Says

I have to disagree with Abigail here. This cover is getting a thumbs up from me because of the dress. It’s almost refreshing to see covers where the woman isn’t wearing some impossibly skintight leather outfit. While wielding a sword. With stiletto heels. Yay for believable outfits!

Kat Says

This cover is okay, but it feels confused. Does it know what’s happening? I don’t think so. Bad font, bad integration of all the visual elements. Result=Meh.

Darkwalker (Nicholas Lenoir #1) by E. L. Tettensor

Covers in Series

N/A

He used to be the best detective on the job. Until he became the hunted…

Once a legendary police inspector, Detective Nicolas Lenoir is now a disillusioned and broken man who spends his days going through the motions and his evenings drinking away the nightmares of his past. Ten years ago, Lenoir barely escaped the grasp of the Darkwalker, a vengeful spirit who demands a terrible toll on those who have offended the dead. But the Darkwalker does not give up on his prey so easily, and Lenoir has always known he’d one day come back

When Lenoir is assigned to a disturbing new case, tracking a grave robber, he treats the job with his usual apathy—until the body snatcher kidnaps a living boy who matters to Lenoir. Desperate to find his young friend before the worst befalls him, Lenoir will do anything catch the monster responsible for the crimes, even if it means finally confronting the evil shadow that’s been haunting him for years

“The cover art is in for DARKWALKER, and it’s fabulous! Dark, gritty, moody — everything I’d hoped it would be. Lenoir himself is a little more handsome than I’d imagined, but I’m not complaining. (In fact, I’d quite like to meet the model…) Just kidding. Sort of.” – E. L. Tettensor

Abigail Says

The author said it all. Love the foggy wash and his super proper stance with the cane, but his expression looks like he could behead a bad guy faster than you could blink.

Chris Says

I’m getting serious Sherlock Holmes vibes from this cover which is always a good thing. The blurred out background is used to very nice effect as well.

Kat Says

It’s okay. And I feel like I’m being really picky. It’s nice. Professional. Cool. Nothing against it or anything. It just doesn’t evoke anything in me. But, hey, props to the cover peeps. It’s a pretty cool cover.

Covers in Series

Eva was never supposed to have survived this long. As the recessive soul, she should have faded away years ago. Instead, she lingers in the body she shares with her sister soul, Addie. When the government discovered the truth, they tried to “cure” the girls, but Eva and Addie escaped before the doctors could strip Eva’s soul away.

Now fugitives, Eva and Addie find shelter with a group of hybrids who run an underground resistance. Surrounded by others like them, the girls learn how to temporarily disappear to give each soul some much-needed privacy. Eva is thrilled at the chance to be alone with Ryan, the boy she’s falling for, but troubled by the growing chasm between her and Addie. Despite clashes over their shared body, both girls are eager to join the rebellion.

Yet as they are drawn deeper into the escalating violence, they start to wonder: How far are they willing to go to fight for hybrid freedom? Faced with uncertainty and incredible danger, their answers may tear them apart forever.

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Nice way to incoorporate the opptical illusion from the debut.

Chris Says

Props to Abigail for pointing out the optical illusion on this cover cause other wise I never would have caught it. I’m also no good at those pictures where you have to cross your eyes to see anything. Anyway. The artist for this one did a great job with setting a mysterious vibe for this book. Good use of color as well.

Kat Says

Love it. Really, really love it. Love the face, the colourization, the visual elements, the font. It is ALL good. This is how you do a cover.

The Midnight Breed Companion by Lara Adrian

Covers in Series

N/A

Now in her new novel, as lush and romantic in detail and atmosphere as it is sleek and steely in storytelling, Anne Rice brings us once again to the rugged coastline of Northern California, to the grand mansion at Nideck Point—to further explore the unearthly education of her transformed Man Wolf.

The novel opens on a cold, gray landscape. It is the beginning of December. Oak fires are burning in the stately flickering hearths of Nideck Point. It is Yuletide. For Reuben Golding, now infused with the wolf gift and under the loving tutelage of the Morphenkinder, this Christmas promises to be like no other . . . as he soon becomes aware that the Morphenkinder, steeped in their own rituals, are also celebrating the Midwinter Yuletide festival deep within Nideck forest.

From out of the shadows of the exquisite mansion comes a ghost—tormented, imploring, unable to speak yet able to embrace and desire with desperate affection . . . As Reuben finds himself caught up with the passions and yearnings of this spectral presence and the preparations for the Nideck town Christmas reach a fever pitch, astonishing secrets are revealed, secrets that tell of a strange netherworld, of spirits—centuries old—who possess their own fantastical ancient histories and taunt with their dark, magical powers . . .

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Uh oh. This looks awesome (Paul Marron alert!), but it already looked awesome on Cynthia Garner’s HEART OF THE DEMON.

Chris Says

Ha! I always suspected these paranormal romance covers just recycled covers and here we are with proof. It feels good to be vindicated.

Kat Says

Not only is this completely unoriginal, but it’s also poorly done. It’s really annoying to try and focus on the title font, which is buried by the surrounding image. This doesn’t pop at all.

Forgotten Sins (Sins Brothers #1) by Rebecca Zanetti

Covers in Series

N/A

His Secrets Can Destroy Her

From the moment Josie laid eyes on sexy, mysterious Shane Dean, she was in love. Their desire ignited a passionate affair, and within weeks, Shane had slipped a ring on her finger. It seemed her every fantasy was coming true . . . until her new husband disappeared without a trace. Now, two years and one broken heart later, Josie is shocked by the hospital calls: Shane has been found . . . at a crime scene with no memory of how he got there.

Her Love Can Save Him

Shane can’t remember the blue-eyed angel at his bedside—or who he even is—but he knows something isn’t right. His hearing is razor sharp, his physical strength incredible, and the urge to protect Josie overwhelming. For powerful enemies are hunting him, and Josie is the key to discovering why. As Shane struggles to unravel his past, dangerous new truths come to light. Can he protect the only woman he’s ever loved? And can Josie trust a man she thought she knew—one who carries such a deadly secret?

No Author Comment Available.

Abigail Says

Now this is sexy without trying. He’s sweaty, dirty, and a little pissed. Love it. Maybe a hint of the supernatural element would have been nice, but he looks like a real man, can’t fault that.

Chris Says

Yay! He has his shirt on. Boo for not showcasing any paranormal elements at all. If they had added even a little hint of spooky to this cover it would have been an easy thumbs up.

Kat Says

Once again, what have they done to his eyes? God, I hope that’s just a trick of the lighting and not something someone has actually intentionally done to this image. Other than that, it’s alright. Title font is simplistic, but you can’t complain it isn’t effective. Overall I like. This is an okay cover.

Chris

I can only speak for me, but I rag on the naked guy covers every time because like you said – they’re all the same. Plus whenever I see one they always make me feel like the paranormal stuff was added only because the genre is popular right now.

I’m willing to be 90% of those books could have the vampire/werewolf replaced with, say, a fireman, and the story would read exactly the same.

Redbutterfly

If you are talking about the “A” in the word After, that “A” is not smaller, it seems like it because there’s a cloud passing over it lol or maybe it is smoke? hmmm… Just saying in case you haven’t noticed lol

Sayomay

Julia

Sayomay, so glad you enjoy these posts (they’re a lot of fun to put together). I *love* the idea of a “best of the best, worst of the worst” post, that sounds like an awesome “end of the year retrospective”. Now I just have to figure out how to pull them all together so we can vote…

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